Step One

[LateBloomer]

Tomorrow is the 20th. The DADT repeal comes into effect and it will be the first time I've come out to anyone, publicly, ever. I'm looking forward to this but I'm also really really nervous as well.

After my shift tomorrow there will be a group of almost 30 service members getting together to both raise awareness and to form a type of support group and it's my intention to attend as my coming out of the closet. I'm in a fairly homophobic unit, the leadership more than my peers, so this may be somewhat detrimental but I am beyond caring anymore now that I have less than a year remaining in the army.

I thought I'd be all shaky and borderline neurotic, but as the hours go by I'm ending up a LOT more calmed down than I thought. I'm realizing that this will be a large weight off of my chest and I really can't wait. Just wanted to say that finding this site helped me a lot in this case, lots of good advice and friendly people. Thank you guys for helping me find the courage to do this!

I admire your courage! And any other self respecting soldier will recognize the same in you.

Best,
LB.